Christmas is back again! And, we can’t wait for our towns and cities to turn all twinkling and merry as the councils add all their Christmas lights to the streets. From huge events with celebrity appearances to low-key local switch-ons, here’s our guide to the best Yorkshire Christmas Lights switch-ons taking place this year.
1. Hull
When’s it on?
17th November.
Where will it take place?
Queen Victoria Square, around a giant Christmas tree.
What’s the details?
Entertainment starts at 5pm, and the switch-on will take place at 6.45pm. There will be an extended Christ lights switch-on this year with performers on the City Hall balcony along with a sound installation in Queen Victoria Square.
Expect music from local artists and a short firework display to celebrate the start of the festive season in Hull. Mia Codd, Casey Adams, Jessica Mae Bennett and Kristian Eastwood, plus comedian Jack Gleadhow and a special performance by Dolly Parton tribute Beebi Del.
2. Bradford
When’s it on?
12th November.
Where will it take place?
The event will take place at The Broadway.
What’s the details?
Jake Quickenden will perform live at the event, with an acoustic set at 5.10pm. Lights will switch on at 6.30pm, however, there’ll be tons more entertainment to enjoy, previous events have seen performances from We aren’t sure it there will be a big time performer but last year’s performance was at 6pm and appearances throughout the day from Frozen‘s Anna and Elsa.
3. Wakefield
When’s it on?
16th November -4th December
Where will it take place?
The Cathedral and The Ridings.
What’s the details?
From 18-20 November, Light Up Wakefield will invite visitors to explore trail of light installations throughout the city, while partners Wakefield BID, Trinity Walk, The Ridings Shopping Centre and Wakefield Cathedral will host festive activities including choirs, fair rides, live music, face painting, Santa’s Grotto, lantern making workshops and much more.
Additionally, the actual switch-on will take place at The Ridings, between 12pm and 5pm.
4. Sheffield
When’s it on?
15th November.
Where will it take place?
Both the Town Hall square and Barker’s Pool from 3pm to 5pm
What’s the details?
The Sheffield Christmas Lights Switch On event takes place across the city centre. The event will include choirs, Santa’s grotto, carolling, panto, street entertainment, Christmas markets, children’s tv and film characters, Christmas craft activities and fairground rides too. There is plenty for everyone to enjoy and get into the festive spirit.
Heart Yorkshire presenters will host the stage programme with a mix of Christmas music, entertainment and interviews. There will be a special headline switch on guests which will be announced when the big day draws nearer.
5. Malton
When’s it on?
TBC
Where will it take place?
In the Market Place.
What’s the details?
The free event will boast brass bands, carol singers and more, with the switch on taking place between 3.50pm and 4.45pm.
6. Hessle
When’s it on?
2nd December
Where will it take place?
The Square, The Weir and Prestongate.
What’s the details?
The event will boast a Christmas market, with over 30 stalls and lights glowing across a number of streets.
7. Beverley
When’s it on?
18th November.
Where will it take place?
Flemingate.
What’s the details?
Expect live performances, a laser light show, festive drinks at BarTipi, food stalls and an appearance from Father Christmas. The event will take place from 5-8pm.
8. York
When’s it on?
17th November 2022.
Where will it take place?
There will be no official switch-on event but the light displays have been extended across the city.
What’s the details?
York’s annual display of Christmas lights is one of the best in the country. There will be displays across the city centre with more lights for Duncombe Place including lights highlighting well-known landmarks such as the Boer War Memorial, St Michael Le Belfry and the Minster.
Cancelled:
Leeds
